Armed Anti-Pakistan Rally Held in Khost as Taliban Supporters Signal Readiness for War

DID Press: Media outlets affiliated with the Taliban reported that an armed rally took place in Khost, where participants chanted slogans against Pakistan and expressed readiness for a potential conflict.

According to the reports, residents from the border districts of Zazi Maidan and Ali Shir gathered in what was described as an “armed march.” Videos circulating online show armed individuals carrying light and heavy weapons while condemning recent Pakistani strikes inside Afghan territory.

Participants in the gathering reportedly stated that they are prepared to join combat operations if ordered by Taliban leadership. Some attendees said they had already registered to serve on front lines in the event of escalation.

Mukhtaruddin Jalalzai told Taliban-linked media that a significant number of local residents have enlisted in preparation for a possible confrontation and are awaiting official decisions from authorities. He emphasized that defending Afghanistan’s territory is the responsibility of all citizens.

Pakistani officials have repeatedly stated that their forces will continue operations inside Afghanistan to counter security threats. In response, the Taliban has described such actions as violations of Afghan sovereignty and warned that further attacks would be met with retaliation.